Water and dreams, the botanical barge-library on the Canal de l'Ourcq

Published by Graziella de Sortiraparis · Photos by Graziella de Sortiraparis · Published on March 17, 2023 at 01:19 p.m.
On the banks of the Canal de l'Ourcq, you'll find an unusual barge that holds treasures of lush greenery and literature. A small café-restaurant hides away in this unique botanical bookshop with its feet in the water, the ideal place for good ideas to germinate!

The quays of the Seine, the Canal de l'Ourcq and the Canal de Saint-Martin are lined with many peniches, but there's something unique about this one. L'Eau et les rêves is a veritable haven for literary and plant-lovers, who want to relax and discover botanical books while enjoying a home-made cake. The only barge in the region to offer a botanical bookshop, the place has a magical feel, surrounded by plants and sunlight reflected on the water. And don't worry, you won't get seasick!

L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0848L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0848L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0848L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0848

Although books and water rarely go hand in hand, literature has its rightful place here, with a special focus on nature. Formerly a maritime bookshop, this atypical barge with many lives has been taken over by Cyrille, who has transformed it into a welcoming refuge. A cosy café-restaurant accompanies the place, with a covered terrace, ideal for a drink, working on the water or enjoying a weekend brunch. Everything is homemade, and you'll find seasonal fish and vegetables on the menu, in honor of the barge's past!

L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0831L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0831L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0831L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0831

Here, the main theme is nature, with books on gardens, ecology and forests, with a special section for children, to introduce them to the subject from an early age. There's also a Do It Yourself section, where you can create your own natural cosmetics, go zero-waste or learn about permaculture! Browsing the shelves, the curious reader can take advantage of the diversity of fields covered, from travel to shamanism, health, cooking or ecological construction.

L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0859L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0859L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0859L'eau et les rêves, la péniche-librairie botanique sur le Canal de l’Ourcq - IMG 0859

We also regularly organize meetings with authors, book signings, exhibitions, ecological workshops, festivals, plant sales and bartering!

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
Starts December 18, 2024

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Location

    9 Quai de l'Oise
    75019 Paris 19

    Route planner

    Accessibility info

    Access
    Metro Riquet (line 7) or Ourcq (line 5)

    Official website
    www.penichelibrairie.com

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